One Detroit school program is flying above the rest.
Davis Aerospace Technical High School added a new, state-of-the-art flight simulator for students who have a "need for speed."
"This is such a step above any every other high school, I'm going to say the nation, that we have this new simulator to prepare for them the collegiate level," said Flight Instructor Chris Meyer.
Meyer said this tool gives students a life-like experience with a true to form cockpit and graphics that are as real as it gets!
"90% of the time when you fly, you are looking outside the plane not inside in cockpit. So we need to make sure this is as realistic as we possibly can," he explained. "Downtown is exactly like downtown. We have the GM RenCen, we have the Ambassador Bridge."
Students who dream of being a pilot can earn their wings with this virtual experience.
Jared Jenkins knew he wanted to learn how to fly since the age of 6.
"Integrity, leadership and it teaches you how to fly an airplane. I'm 17-years-old," Jenkins explained. "How many people know that a 17-year-old that knows how to fly? I told my mom and dad I wanted to be a fighter pilot and ever since then they have been pushing behind me and I've been determined to get there."
Jared plans to join the Air Force once he graduates.
The simulator cost more than $400,000 dollars. The program received federal funds reserved for career technical schools.
Because of this new tool, Davis is now opening its program to any high school students in the area looking to become a pilot.
They have 40 spots to fill this Fall.
"Airlines are desperately in need of pilots right now. This is a great advantage for them," Meyer said. "Get trained, learn the fundamentals of flying and move off to college with a step above everybody else."
Jenkins added, "Keep your head in the books. Get your head right. Keep your head up. And don't let anybody tell you, you can't do nothing in Detroit. It's possible."
